Prime Minister Scott Morrison promotes plans for Australia's first lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant ThuThursday 4 Scott Morrison announces his government's roadmap for resources at Tomago, near Newcastle. ( Share Print text only Cancel Standing in a paddock at the back of an industrial area near Newcastle, Prime Minister Scott Morrison declared the site would soon be the first advanced manufacturing facility of lithium-ion batteries in Australia. Key points: Energy Renaissance will build a $70 million battery manufacturing plant at Tomago The number of jobs created is lower than initial estimates due to increased use of automation The lithium-ion batteries will be specifically designed for use in hot climates